AEC
What does AEC stand for?
Automatic Exposure Control
What AEC cells should be selected if doing an AP shoulder?
Center cell
What is the intended purpose of using technique charts?
To standardize the selection of exposure factors for the typical patient so that the quality of images is consistent
What does APR stand for?
Anatomically Programmed Radiography
What are some limitations of using an AEC system?
Positioning/centering, Collimation, inappropriate cell selection
What AEC cell should be selected if doing an AP Abdomen?
Left and right outer cells
What are some exposure factors that might be included on a technique chart?
What is the purpose of a backup timer?
Serves as a safety feature by creating a maximum length of time for which the x-ray exposure will continue (when AEC is not used or functioning properly)
What are the 2 types of AEC systems called?
Phototimers and ionization chambers
What AEC cells should be selected if doing an AP Pelvis X-ray?
left and right outer cells
What are the 2 types of exposure technique charts that exist?
Fixed kVp/Variable mAs and Variable kVp/Fixed mAs
What is the purpose of having density controls on an AEC system?
To modify the amount of radiation the AEC system allows before terminating the exposure (accommodates for patient size, pathology, etc)
Which is the most common type of AEC system?
Ionization chambers
What AEC cells should be selected if doing a PA chest X-Ray?
Left and right outer AEC cells
What are some tools that are used in the development of a technique chart?
Phantoms, Calipers, a calculator
Ionization chambers are located where in relation to the IR?
In front of the IR
What device do Phototimers use to convert visible light energy into electrical energy?
Photomultiplier tube (PMT)
What AEC cells should be selected if doing a lateral chest x-ray?
Center cell
Does Mr. D prefer we use technique charts?
NO
Why is it so important that we are educated on all this exposure technique stuff?
So we can follow ALARA and be the best future techs :)